While it’s not advisable for some women – such as those with certain infections and chronic illnesses – the vast majority of women are capable of breastfeeding and are encouraged to at least attempt it.
Breast milk provides complete nutrition, helping to build strong digestive and immune systems and can protect against respiratory infections, some childhood cancers, and obesity. Breastfed babies often have less gas, constipation and diarrhea, fewer feeding problems and less illness than formula-fed babies.
For nursing mothers, breastfeeding provides an inexpensive and convenient feeding option. Women who breastfeed may lose weight faster, experience less stress during the postpartum period, build stronger bonds with their babies, and decrease their risk of breast cancer.
Before it’s time to deliver, notify your doctor, and the health care team that delivers your baby, of your breastfeeding plans. They’ll help you start, and support your breastfeeding once the baby is born. Try to nurse within the first hour after delivery while your newborn is alert and ready to suck. After your baby gets the hang of breastfeeding, nurse on demand.
Use signs of hunger, such as when your baby nuzzles against your breast, makes sucking motions, or puts a hand in his or her mouth, as a guide for when to feed your baby. Many newborns will nurse between eight and 12 times every 24 hours for about 10 to 15 minutes on each breast. Your doctor can explain how to interpret diaper-changing patterns and weight gain as signs that your baby is getting enough milk.
Breastfeeding women require about 500 more calories per day than they needed before becoming pregnant. Eat a well-balanced diet that includes at least 1,000 milligrams of calcium, and drink at least eight glasses of liquid a day. Try to identify and avoid foods that seem to cause a reaction in your baby. Rashes, fussiness, diarrhea or congestion after nursing can signal a food allergy.
Exclusive breastfeeding can temporarily stop ovulation, making it less likely that you’ll get pregnant. However, if you’re trying to avoid pregnancy, you still need to use birth control. Barrier methods such as condoms and intra-uterine devices will not affect your milk supply. If you decide to use hormonal contraception, your doctor can help you choose a progestin-only method. The estrogen in combination pills can diminish milk supply early on and should not be used until nursing is established.
Ob-gyns, pediatricians, nurses and lactation specialists can be great breast-feeding resources. Be sure to consult with them about health questions and practical issues.
Dr. James N. Martin, Jr. is president of The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
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